After obtaining a permit from the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources you can hire possum traps from Mitcham Council (for more details call Mitcham Council on 8372 8888). Traps must be set in a stable level position protected from dogs, cats, wind, rain and direct sun. All traps are to be checked no later than two hours after sunrise. Trapped possums must be kept within the trap in a quiet place, covered with a cloth or bag, and must be released within 50 metres of the capture site at sunset on the day of capture.

Possums are very territorial and will kill intruders. For this reason they must only be released into their own territories so that food supplies, water, shelter and mates are not disturbed.

What if it Doesn't Work?

There are a number of places that can provide you with further information on how to live in harmony with possums, and answer questions about abandoned or injured native animals. These organisations are: